Now you are ready to find a model file of the thing you want to print. Just like Word documents end in .doc or .docx, these files usually end in .stl. There are plenty of websites that host pre-made 3D designs that usually have been tested with most common printers. You can find an object you want to print on one of these websites (or one that came preloaded with your device) and read all comments and instructions for the print.

Once you print a basic object you can move on to more complicated objects requiring rafts, supports or even multiple moving parts. You can also try your hand at making your own 3D models or scans.

Assembly

Once you download the file onto your computer, you load it into the 3D printing software that you downloaded previously.

Here’s a video of us printing the Empire State Building:

Outreach

If you want to make sure your patrons get familiar with your 3D printer and all that they can do with it, be sure to check out this page of 3D Printer InfoGraphics. They can be used as handouts or to advertise your makerspace.

For more information and/or inspiration, check out this video that explains how printing prosthetic limbs got started.